Eyeglass frame assembly

ABSTRACT

An eyewear frame assembly comprises at least one lens that is substantially encircled by a flexible wire or cable. The wire can be constructed as a monofilament wire or a multi-filament wire. Various closing members are shown, some of which feature magnetic members.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/846,357, filed on May 14, 2004, which is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/678,964, filed on Oct. 2, 2003,which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/610,862, filed on Jun. 30, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/269,811, filed Oct. 11, 2002 andissued on Jul. 22, 2003 as U.S. Pat. No. 6,595,634, which claims thepriority benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/394,837, filedJul. 10, 2002. Each of these applications is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety. Copending U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/846,953, filed May 14, 2004, entitled Adjustable Tensioning Systemfor Rimless Eyewear and having Attorney Docket No. IMMAST.020A, andcopending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/846,349, filed May 14,2004, entitled Adjustable Tensioning System for Rimless Eyewear andhaving Attorney Docket No. IMMAST.021A also are hereby incorporated byreference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to eyewear. More particularly, the presentinvention relates to a specially designed eyewear unit or assembly.

2. Description of the Related Art

Eyewear styles change frequently and fashionable eyewear can be costlyto purchase. In the past, eyewear style has been defined by a frameformed at least partially of metal and/or resin based materials. Assuch, the eyewear was heavy and the style and size of the lenses werefixed based upon the frame. To accommodate the fashion whims and opticalneeds of the public, hundreds of eyewear styles with differing lenssizes and shapes must currently be manufactured. To manufacture a framefor each style typically requires a large manufacturing run of each sizeand shape. This is costly and can result in a cost that is not recoveredif the eyewear style is not popular enough to sell sufficientquantities.

Recently, so-called rimless eyewear has been introduced in which templesand a bridge are directly secured to the lenses with threaded fasteners,posts or the like, which require holes to extend through the lenses.Such rimless eyewear has been quickly adopted within the fashion world.The rimless eyewear is very light due to the lack of a heavy framearound the lenses.

However, there are several disadvantages of the truly rimless eyewear.First, the holes used to secure a bridge and a pair of temples to thelenses must be drilled very precisely. Thus, most optical techniciansare not able to perform the drilling in-house and outside lenspreparation services must be used. Such outside services are costly andadd additional time to the eyewear supply process such that end usersneed to wait longer for the eyewear.

Further, drilling the necessary holes in the eyewear can lead to lensbreakage, even by the outside services. The cost of replacement lensesobviously must be calculated into the end cost of the eyewear, whichfurther increases the cost of eyewear.

Finally, the lens materials often may not have the sufficient strengthfor the long term use and abuse often attributed to some eyeglasswearers. Many persons in the eyewear industry, therefore, have beentrying to find a better alternative to the rimless eyewear constructionscurrently found in the industry.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An eyewear assembly is desired that can create a rimless eyewearappearance without the difficulties associated with the supply andassembly of current rimless eyewear constructions. An eyewear assemblyis also desired that can be fitted with lenses by most opticaltechnicians without the necessity to use outside services. Furthermore,eyewear assemblies are desired in which an optician can easilyaccommodate the diverse desires of the public for various lens shapesand sizes while maintaining a low inventory of frames. Accordingly, aneyewear assembly is desired in which a single base frame can be used forlenses of varying shapes. In addition, an eyewear assembly is sometimesdesired in which a single base frame can be used for lenses of varyingsizes.

Accordingly, some embodiments of the present invention provide aneyewear system that comprises at least one eyewear lens having an endsurface that defines a perimeter of the lens. A wire extends around theperimeter with the perimeter having a total length and the wireextending around at least about 90% of the total length.

According to some embodiments of the present invention, an eyeglassframe assembly is provided comprising a first lens and a second lens. Afirst wire substantially encircles the first lens and a second wiresubstantially encircles the second lens. A bridge connects the firstwire and the second wire. The first wire has a first end and a secondend and the second wire has a first end and a second end. A firstclosing member is connected to the first wire and the first closingmember connects the first end of the first wire to the second end of thefirst wire. A second closing member is connected to the second wire andthe second closing member connects the first end of the second wire tothe second end of the second wire.

According to some embodiments of the present invention, an eyewearsystem is provided comprising at least one eyewear lens having an endsurface that defines a perimeter of the lens. A wire extends around theperimeter. The perimeter has a total length and less than a total of atleast about 10% of the total length of the perimeter is contacted byportions of rigid components.

In one arrangement, the eyewear can be assembled by an optician. Theoptician prepares the lenses with a groove extending about the peripheryof each lens. A wire is wrapped around the lens. The wire is formed in aloop with a closing mechanism and the other components (e.g., bridge andtemples) are secured to the lenses directly or indirectly with the wire.For example, the wire that secures the closing mechanism against thelens, may be used to attach the temples.

According to some embodiments of the present invention, an eyewearsystem is provided comprising at least one eyewear lens having an endsurface that defines a perimeter of the lens. The wire extends aroundthe perimeter. The perimeter has a total length and less than a total ofat least about 10%, and more preferably 5%, of the total length of theperimeter is contacted by portions of rigid components.

Since there are many well-known methods of attaching temples to aprojection extending from the outside perimeter edge of a lens, itshould be understood in reading any descriptions of the embodiments ofthe present invention that any suitable method can be used to attach thetemples to the various closing mechanisms described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention will now be described with reference to the drawings ofseveral preferred embodiments. The illustrated embodiments are intendedto illustrate and not to limit the invention. The drawings comprise thefollowing figures.

FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of a frameassembly having certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged sectioned view of a portion of the frame assemblyof FIG. 1 taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectioned view of a portion of the frame assemblyof FIG. 1 showing a wire being inserted into a locking unit.

FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the frame assembly of FIG. 1with the lens secured.

FIG. 5 is an enlarged sectioned view of a portion of the frame assemblyof FIG. 1 taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a sectioned view of the frame assembly of FIG. 1 taken alongline 6-6 of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a sectioned view of the frame assembly of FIG. 1 taken alongline 7-7 of FIG. 4.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a frame assembly embodying thearrangement of FIG. 1 and comprising a bridge member and a pair oftemple members.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a frame assemblyhaving certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention.

FIG. 10 is a sectioned view of the frame assembly of FIG. 9 taken alongline 10-10 of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a sectioned view of the frame assembly of FIG. 9 taken alongline 11-11 of FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a frame assemblyhaving certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention.

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a portion of the frame assembly of FIG.12.

FIG. 14 is a sectioned view of the portion of the frame assembly shownin FIG. 13 taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the frameassembly of FIG. 12.

FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of anotherembodiment of a frame assembly having certain features, aspects andadvantages of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a simplified, partial top view of an eyewear construction anda related interface between closing members and a lens.

FIG. 18 is a simplified, partial top view of another eyewearconstruction and a related interface between closing members and a lens.

FIG. 19 is an illustration of a bridge construction for eyewear arrangedand configured in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

FIG. 20 is a sectioned view of the frame assembly of FIG. 19illustrating the connection of a nose piece or bridge to a lens.

FIG. 21 is a developed view of the bridge of FIG. 19 showing the bridgeprior to bending.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a frameassembly having certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention.

FIG. 23 is a sectioned view of the embodiment of FIG. 22 taken alongline 23-23 of FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 is a sectioned view of another frame assembly having certainfeatures, aspects and advantages of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is an illustration of a bridge construction for eyewear arrangedand configured in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

FIG. 26 is a view along the line 26-26 of the bridge construction shownin FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is an illustration of another bridge construction for eyeweararranged and configured in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 28 is an illustration of a further bridge construction for eyeweararranged and configured in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 29 is a view along line 29-29 of the bridge construction shown inFIG. 28.

FIG. 30 is a sectioned view of a bridge construction for eyeweararranged and configured in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a primary eyewear frame with attachedtemples and a corresponding auxiliary eyewear frame without attachedtemples in which both frame assemblies are arranged and configured inaccordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention.

FIG. 32 is a sectioned view taken along line 32-32 of FIG. 31 showing aflexible wire disposed within a groove of a lens.

FIG. 33 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a frame assembly havingcertain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention andcomprising a lens holding structure closing mechanism that incorporatesa magnetic member.

FIG. 34 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a frame assembly havingcertain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention andcomprising another lens holding structure closing mechanism thatincorporates a magnetic member.

FIG. 35 is a sectioned view of another embodiment of a frame assemblyhaving certain features, aspects and advantages of the present inventionand comprising a lens holding structure closing mechanism thatincorporates a magnetic member.

FIG. 36 is a sectioned view of the embodiment of FIG. 35 taken along theline 36-36 in FIG. 35.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a lower closing member of theembodiment of FIG. 35.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a wire with a balled end that can beused with certain embodiments that are arranged and configured inaccordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame assemblyhaving certain features, aspects and advantages of the present inventionand incorporating a lower closing member of a mechanism using the wireof FIG. 38.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame assemblyhaving certain features, aspects and advantages of the present inventionand incorporating a lens holding structure closing mechanism featuringthe lower closing member of FIG. 39.

FIG. 41 is a partial perspective view of a further embodiment of a frameassembly having certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention and incorporating magnetic members generally verticallyaligned.

FIG. 42 is a partial perspective view of a further embodiment of a frameassembly having certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention.

FIG. 43 is a sectioned view of the embodiment of FIG. 42 taken along theline 43-43 in FIG. 42.

FIG. 44 is a sectioned view of the embodiment of FIG. 42 taken along theline 44-44 in FIG. 43.

FIG. 45 is a sectioned view of the embodiment of FIG. 42 taken along theline 45-45 in FIG. 43.

FIG. 46 is a partial perspective view of another embodiment of a frameassembly having certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention.

FIG. 47 is a sectioned view of the embodiment of FIG. 46 taken along theline 47-47 in FIG. 46.

FIG. 48 is a sectioned view of the embodiment of FIG. 46 taken along theline 48-48 in FIG. 47.

FIG. 49 is a sectioned view of the embodiment of FIG. 46 taken along theline 49-49 in FIG. 47.

FIG. 50 is a sectioned view of the embodiment of FIG. 46 taken along theline 50-50 in FIG. 49.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The present invention generally relates to eyewear frame assemblies. Inat least one embodiment of the present invention, the eyewear frameassembly features a flexible wire that forms at least a major portion ofa lens securing frame. In some arrangements, the flexible wire generallycircumscribes the associated lens. To provide a generic frame assemblythat is capable of providing customizable lens shapes and sizes, thewire can have a length sufficient to extend around a lens and can betightened about the lens such that lenses of varied sizes and shapes canbe secured within a single frame assembly. When the lenses have beensecured, the excess wire may be removed in any suitable manner,including but not limited to wire cutters or the like. Thisconfiguration provides an almost limitless selection of eyewear lensstyles while requiring only a single frame assembly that can receive andsecure the lenses. In all of the embodiments described herein, thelenses can comprise a tinted lens, a corrective lens or any otherdesired type of lens, including but not limited to a protective lens.

Preferably, the wire extends around at least about 90% of thecircumference of the associated lens. In some embodiments, the wireextends around at least about 95% of the circumference of the associatedlens. In other embodiments, the wire extends almost entirely or entirelyaround the circumference of the associated lens. By extending the wirearound substantially the entire circumference of the associated lenswithin a groove, a rimless look is provided to eyewear while creating aflexible and durable lens mounting system as compared to other rimlessor semi-rimless eyewear (e.g., eyewear with the lens secured in an upperor lower metal frame with a nylon cord). In addition, such aconstruction is easy to assemble by opticians and the like without theuse of costly and time consuming outside services often employed toassemble other types of fully rimless eyewear.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, rigid components, such as, for examplebut without limitation, a bridge, a brow bar, or closing members arepositioned along the circumference of the associated lens. Preferably,these rigid components together span less than about 10% of the totalcircumferential length of the lens. In some embodiments, the rigidcomponents span less than about 5% of the total circumferential length.In some preferred embodiments, the closing members have a verticaldimension that is smaller than at least one of a lateral dimension and arearward (i.e., toward the ear) dimension. Such embodiments reduce theaesthetic presence of the closing members and improve the rimlessappearance of the eyewear.

With reference now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, an embodiment of eyewearcomprising a frame assembly 111 that is arranged and configured inaccordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention is shown. The frame assembly 111 generally comprises a browbar 113 and a pair of wires 115. While not shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2,the frame assembly preferably comprises a pair of temples (not shown),which can be configured in any manner described below or any othersuitable manner. In some embodiments, a bridge or nosepiece (not shown)can be provided in addition to, or as an alternative to, the brow bar113. For instance, an arrangement is shown in FIG. 8 where the brow barhas been eliminated and the eyewear comprises a bridge and a pair oftemples.

The wires 115 preferably are substantially flexible and extend from eachend of the illustrated brow bar 113. In the illustrated arrangement, thewires 115 are connected to the brow bar 113 by an intervening structure.In particular, the wires 115 are secured to a portion of a locking unit117, which is secured to the brow bar 113. More particularly, in theillustrated arrangement, one end of the wire 115 is secured to anexterior surface of the locking unit 117. In other arrangements, thewire 115 can be secured to an interior surface of the locking unit 117at both ends. In yet other arrangements, the locking unit 117 can beintegrally formed with the wire 115, the brow bar 113 or both. In somefurther arrangements, some of which are described below, the lockingunit 117 can be integrated into components that secure temples to thelenses.

The brow bar 113 preferably is formed of a suitable material. In onearrangement, the brow bar 113 is formed of a metal, a metal alloy or ametal composite composition. In some arrangements, the brow bar 113 canbe formed from resin-based materials or the like. Moreover, the brow bar113 in the illustrated arrangement has a slightly arcuate shape but thebrow bar 113 can have other configurations, including but not limitedto, relatively linear constructions or more serpentine shapes. Theillustrated brow bar 113 also is formed of a thin, flat, bar-like pieceof material. In other arrangements, the brow bar 113 can have othercross-sectional configurations and can have a varied cross-sectionalshape over its length. For instance, in some arrangements, the brow bar113 can be generally cylindrical or tubular and, in other arrangements,the brow bar 113 may transition from generally rectangular, forinstance, to generally cylindrical, for instance, back to generallyrectangular, for instance, along its length.

Each wire 115 desirably comprises a multiple filament construction. Inother words, the wire 115, preferably, comprises more than one filament,fiber or strand, which are generally indicated by reference numeral 118(see FIG. 7). In some embodiments, the filaments 118 are made from ametal, a metal alloy, a nylon, a polymer, a resin, a natural fiber oranother naturally occurring or man-made material that is suitably strongin tension while maintaining sufficient flexibility to secure a lens ina manner described herein. In some embodiments, the wire 115 may bemanufactured of a type of fiber-optic material. While a single filamentcan be used and is practicable, it is currently believed that themultiple filament construction provides greater flexibility whilemaintaining sufficient strength for use in the manners described hereinand, therefore, multiple filament constructions are preferred.Furthermore, multiple filament constructions can increase the frictioninterface between the lenses and the wire, which friction helps securethe lens orientations relative to the other eyewear components.

The multiple filaments 118 preferably are intertwined, braided orwrapped together to define the wire 115. The wire 115 can be encasedwithin a sheath, cover, jacket or casing 120, if desired. By enclosingthe multiple filaments 118 in a casing 120 or the like, the filaments118 can be better protected against normal wear and tear that mightotherwise occur. In one embodiment, the wire 115 is constructedsimilarly to a braided fishing leader wire.

To provide a rimless appearance, the diameter of the wire should besufficiently narrow. In some embodiments, the wire 115 has an averagediameter of between about 0.1 mm and about 3.0 mm. Preferably, the wire115 has an average diameter of between about 0.2 mm and about 1.6 mm,and more preferably has an average diameter of between about 0.2 mm andabout 0.6 mm, and even more preferably has an average diameter ofbetween about 0.4 mm and about 0.6 mm. In one embodiment, the wire 115has an average diameter of between about 0.1 mm and about 0.4 mm. Inanother embodiment, the wire 115 has an average diameter of about 0.4mm.

With reference to FIG. 2, each wire 115 of the illustrated arrangementadvantageously has a free end 116 that can be fed through thecorresponding locking unit 117. In the illustrated embodiment, onelocking unit 117 is located at, and attached to, each end of the browbar 113. In some arrangements, the locking unit 117 can be integrallyformed with the brow bar 113 or the wire 115. The wire 115, whenextended into the locking unit 117, advantageously defines a loop thatcan encircle a lens of any desired size and shape so long as the loophas a sufficient circumferential length.

With reference to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, an outer edge 121 of each lens 119preferably is formed with a channel, furrow, or groove 122 within whichat least a portion of the diameter of the associated wire 115 isreceived. The wire 115, as suggested above, preferably has a lengthsuitable for wrapping about and securing an outer edge 121 of each lens119, as shown in FIG. 3. Preferably, the diameter of the wire 115 issufficiently small that a majority of the diameter of the wire 115 canbe positioned within the groove 122. Such a positioning reduces theamount of wire visible along the edge 121 of the lens. In one preferredarrangement, the sizing of the groove 122 and the diameter of the wire115 is such that the wire 115 is substantially to completely recessedwithin the groove 122. In one particularly preferred arrangement, thedepth of the groove 122 is greater than the width of the groove 122 andthe width of the groove 122 is about the same as the diameter of thewire 115.

With reference now to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, each locking unit preferablycomprises a housing 130. Preferably, the housing 130 is made ofstainless steel, carbide, titanium or some other high performance metal.In some embodiments, the housing 130 can be formed of other suitablematerials, including, but not limited to, carbon fiber materials orplastics.

In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 130 comprises a main bodythat includes, among other portions, an upper roof portion 138. The mainbody preferably defines a passage 140 that comprises an entrance opening132 and an exit opening 134. While the passage 140 extends between thesetwo openings 132, 134, it is possible for the passage 140 to extend onlypartially through the housing 130. The passage 140 advantageously has asize that can accommodate the diameter of the end 116 of the wire 115.

Preferably, a slot 136 is positioned along the passage. The slot 136 ofthe illustrated arrangement is positioned proximate the opening 134 andalong the upper roof portion 138. A pivotally flexible tab 142 dependsfrom the roof portion 138 proximate the opening 132 of housing 130. Thetab preferably extends downward into a portion of the passage 140. In apreferred in arrangement, the tab 142 and the slot 136 are positionedalong approximately the same side of the housing 130. By such aplacement, the operation (discussed below) of both components can beenhanced.

With continued reference to FIG. 1 and additional reference to FIG. 3, amechanical fastener 144 is adapted to be inserted into the passage 140.The mechanical fastener 144 preferably interacts with the housing 130 ina manner to lock the wire 115 in position within the passage 140. Whileany suitable mechanical fastener 144 can be used (e.g., wedge, pin,etc.), a screw, such as a set screw, is used in the illustratedarrangement.

The screw 144 in the illustrated embodiment extends into the passage 140through the opening 134. Preferably, the outer end of the opening 134includes a counterbore or countersink 146 such that the screw 144 isless noticeable upon assembly. The screw 144, when placed in the opening146, preferably is sized to extend into the passage 140 through aportion of the passage 140 that is intersected by an imaginary extensionof the slot 136. The screw 144 preferably has a tip or a distal end thatcan pinch the wire 115 between the screw 144 and the body of the housing130. The pinching of the wire 115 advantageously secures the wire 115 inposition within the housing 130.

Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the screw 144 advantageouslypinches the wire 115 or cable against the tab 142. Thus, the tab isresiliently displaced, which increases the holding power of the housing130 on the wire 115. Preferably, the tab 142 is positioned about onediameter of the wire 115 from the end of the screw 144 such that thewire 115 can be secured between the tab 142 and the screw 144. The tab142 desirably flexes or pivots upward due to the forces imposed by thewire 115 and the screw 144, which further secures the end 116 of thewire 115 in position within the housing 130.

Eyewear, either primary or an auxiliary clip-on type, can be formed withthe arrangement of FIGS. 1-7. In assembling eyewear using theillustrated arrangement, a pair of lenses 119 preferably are prepared.During preparation, the channel 121 is formed in the outer perimeter ofeach lens 119. If the eyewear is to be used as an auxiliary clip-on typeof eyewear, the lenses 119 can be similar in size, shape and design tothe lenses and/or frame of a wearer's regular or primary eyeglasses. Onewire 115 can be wrapped about each lens 119 and positioned within thechannel 121. The free end 116 of the wire can be inserted into theopening 132 and into the passage 140 of the corresponding locking unit117. The end 116 of the wire 115 preferably extends outward of thehousing through the opening 134. The end 116 of the wire 115 then can bebent or pulled upward through the slot 136, as shown in FIG. 3. Thescrew 144 can be inserted and tightened into the passage 140 of thehousing 130 such that the wire 115 is secured in position within thehousing 130. Excess wire can be removed and this is easiest performedonce the end 116 of the wire 115 is secured in position with the screw144. Desirably, the end of the wire 115 is disposed within the slot 136and, in one preferred arrangement, the end of the wire 115 is positionedflush along the roof 138 (see FIG. 12).

With reference to FIG. 8, eyewear is illustrated having a frame assembly111′ arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,aspects and advantages of the present invention. The illustrated frameassembly 111′ preferably integrates a housing 130′, which preferably issimilar to the housing 130 discussed above, into a closing member orprojection. The projection joins temple members 197′ to each of therespective lenses 119′. Preferably, the housing 130 comprises a portionof a locking mechanism like that described above. The threaded member ofthe locking mechanism preferably is inserted into the housing from thebottom of the housing 130′ such that the threaded member issubstantially obscured from view. The threaded member, as describedabove, is used to secure the wire 115′ within the housing 130′ such thatthe wire 115′ can be used to secure the lenses 119′ in position withinthe frame assembly 111′.

With reference now to FIGS. 9-11, another embodiment of a frame assembly211 that is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features,aspects and advantages of the present invention is illustrated. Theillustrated frame 211 comprises a pair of earpieces or temples 215, abridge or nosepiece 217 and lens holding structures 219. The lensholding structures 219 are sized and configured to receive a pair oflenses 221. In this embodiment, the lens holding structures 219 are of agenerally fixed circumferential length, such that the number of shapevariations that can be accommodated by this arrangement is significantlyless than the number that can be accommodated by the arrangementdescribed above, for instance.

With reference to FIG. 9, each of the lens holding structures 219preferably comprises a wire 222, which can be configured in any suitablemanner, including those set forth above. The illustrated wire 222comprises a pair of ends that can be selectively secured together. Inthe illustrated arrangement, the two ends are disposed proximate thetemples 215. As such, a pair of closing members 223 is provided for eachlens 221 with one closing member 223 of each pair being associated witheach of the ends of the wire 222.

With reference to FIG. 11, the ends of the wire 222 preferably are fixedto the closing members 223 in any suitable manner, such as by welding,soldering or the like. In some embodiments, an anchoring arrangement,which is discussed below, can be used for one or both connections. Byfixing or attaching, removably or otherwise, both ends of the wire 222to the closing members 223, the circumferential length of the lens 221that can be used with the frame assembly 211 becomes defined. While thisconstruction ultimately limits the number of shape combinations that canbe accommodated by the frame assembly 211, this construction isadvantageous to use in high volume production applications. It should benoted that each of the lenses 221 preferably has an outer edge formedwith a groove 231 in which the wire 222 is received. The groove 231 andthe wire 222 can be sized and configured as described above.

With reference to FIG. 9 and FIG. 11, each of the closing members 223preferably comprises two openings 225 through which a threaded fastener227 may be extended. For instance, the openings 225 in one closingmember 223 may be threaded while the holes 225 in the other closingmember 223 would not be threaded such that the two closing members 223can be drawn together when the screws 227 are tightened into theopenings 225. In some arrangements, a nut or a threaded sleeve can beused such that tightening the threaded fastener can draw the two closingmembers 223 toward each other and, more preferably, together.

Each of the earpieces or temples 215 preferably is pivotally receivedbetween at least a portion of the closing members 223 positioned at therespective end of the frame assembly 211. In other words, each of thetemples 215 preferably includes an opening 229 that can be aligned withone set of the openings 225 of the closing members 223. In theillustrated arrangement, the opening 229 is aligned with the outer setof openings 225 of the closing members 223. The screw 227 extendsthrough all three openings so that temple 215 can be secured between theclosing members, as shown in FIG. 15. In other arrangements, the temple215 can underlay or overlay the coupled closing members 223, if sodesired. Other suitable manners also can be used to attach the templeand/or to form a temple hinge. For instance, a post can be used that isnot aligned with either of the threaded fasteners 227.

The frame 211 advantageously is simple for an optician/technician toassemble due to the use of the illustrated locking mechanism, which israther simple in form and function. The frame 211 also provides anappearance of a rimless frame assembly while not requiring drillingthrough the lens of the eyewear. Furthermore, while multiple filamentwire is preferred, as described above, a simple mono-filament wire, whenused with the disclosed constructions, also can be used to secure lenseshaving varying sizes and configurations within a frame construction thatcan be generic in appearance. Furthermore, the use of the wire thatcompresses radially inward on the lenses while the wire is subjected totensile loading results in a frame that is much lighter and moreflexible than an eyewear frame that has a metal or resin based framebody that surrounds a majority or an entirety of the lenses.

With reference now to FIGS. 12-15, another embodiment of a frameassembly 311 that is arranged and configured in accordance with certainfeatures, aspects and advantages of the present invention isillustrated. The frame 311 generally comprises a pair of ear pieces ortemples 315, a bridge or nose piece 317, and lens holding structures 319that receive a pair of lenses 321.

As with the arrangement described directly above, a pair of closingmembers 323A, 323B extend outward from a peripheral surface of each lens321. The closing members 323A, 323B each comprise a corresponding pairof openings 325A and 325B through which threaded fasteners 327, such asscrews, extend. The temples 315 can be mounted to the closing members323A, 323B in any suitable manner, including those described above.

In the illustrated embodiment, each lens holding structure 319 comprisesa wire 322 having ends 324A and 3248. In one embodiment, the wire 322has any suitable construction, including but not limited to thearrangement described above. The wire 322 can be received within agroove 331, shown in FIG. 15. The relationship between the groove 331and the wire 322 can be as set forth above. The groove 331 preferably issized relative to the wire 322 such that the wire 322 is substantiallyhidden from view. In one embodiment, the depth of the groove 331 isgreater than or about the same as the diameter of the wire 322. Inanother less preferred embodiment, the depth of the groove 331 isslightly less than the diameter of the wire 322 such that a portion ofthe wire can be viewed along the outside of the groove.

In the illustrated arrangement, one end 324A of the wire 322advantageously carries an anchor member 343. As used herein, an anchoris a generally enlarged portion attached to or integrally formed withthe wire. The anchor 343 shown in FIG. 14 is generally cubic,rectangular, or the like. The anchor member 363 shown in FIG. 16 isgenerally spherical or the like. The anchor member 343, 363 can have anysuitable configuration and, in a preferred arrangement, the anchormember 343, 363 is sized and configured to complement a socket 341, 365that receives the anchor member 343, 363. In some embodiments, theanchors can have shapes, such as, for example but without limitation,conical, spherical, oval, etc. Moreover, instead of the end 324A of thewire 322 being fixed to an anchoring member, the end 324A simply can betied in a knot form or expanded in order to lock the end 324A in asuitably shaped recess 365 formed in the closing member 323A. Desirably,the anchor member and the wire (or the knot and the wire) togetherdefine a type of stopper knot locking assembly.

With reference to FIG. 14, one of the closing members, in this case theupper closing member 323A, can be formed with the socket 341, which isaccessible from the side of the closing member 323A that mates with theother of the pair of closing members. In this manner, the anchor 343,when placed in the socket 341, can be captured, or secured in position,between the closing members. As shown in FIG. 15, the closing member323A defines an opening 345 at the surface where the socket 341 isdefined within the body of the closing member 323A. As shown in FIG. 16,the size and configuration of the socket 365 can vary and any suitableshapes can be used.

Extending from the recess 341 to an outer surface of the closing member323A is an opening 347. The wire 322 extends from the anchor through theopening 347 and, therefore, the opening preferably is sized toaccommodate the wire 322. In one embodiment, the opening 347 isgenerally cylindrical in shape. In some arrangements, the opening 347extends at an angle through the closing member 323A and is generallycylindrical in shape. In one preferred arrangement, the opening 347extends through a surface of a closing member at a location generallyadjacent to the lens 321. Throughout the discussion of the closingmembers 323A, 323B and the ball and chain attachment mechanisms, itshould be recognized that the members and the related components can beinverted, reversed or the like, if desired.

The other closing member 323B preferably is formed with another opening349. In the illustrated arrangement, the opening 349 undulates and, inone preferred embodiment, the opening 349 breaks through the upper andlower surfaces of the closing member 323B. By extending the openingthrough the lower surface of the closing member 323B, the wire 322 canbe more easily threaded into the closing member 323B. Once threaded intothe closing member 323B, the closing members can be brought together andthe wire 322 tightened about the lens 321.

By breaking the surface that will be positioned between the closingmembers 323A, 323B (e.g., the upper surface of the closing member 323B),the opening 349 advantageously allows the two closing members 323A, 323Bto squeeze the wire 322 between the closing members 323A, 323B such thatthe wire 322 can be better secured in position when the threaded members327 are tightened. To facilitate the squeezing of the wire 322, theopening preferably has a general diameter slightly greater than thediameter of the wire and the depth of the opening in the region in whichthe opening 349 extends through the surface preferably is slightly lessthan the diameter of the wire. Moreover, the anchor member 343preferably is juxtaposed over the opening 349 in the lower closingmember 323B such that the anchor member 343, which can extend slightlydownward relative to the bottom surface of the upper closing member323A, can further clamp the wire 322 in position within the lowerclosing member 323B.

With reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, the illustrated closing members 323A,323B are formed with tooth elements 351, 353. The tooth elements 351,353 can be omitted if desired. For instance, FIGS. 17 and 18, which aredescribed in more detail below, illustrate arrangements in which theteeth are omitted. If used, the tooth elements 351, 353 can bevertically aligned with one another and preferably are sized andconfigured to be received within the groove 331 formed along the outeredge of the lens 321. As illustrated, the tooth elements preferablyextend into the portion of the groove defined between the ends 324A,324B of the wire 322. Thus, the tooth elements 351, 353 advantageouslyfacilitate engagement between the closing members 323A, 323B and therespective lens 321.

As discussed directly above, a portion of any closing memberconstruction or projection disclosed herein can be configured to have araised lip or tooth that fits within a portion of the groove in theperipheral surface of the associated lens. The tooth may reduce thelikelihood that the closing member will slide off of the peripheral sideof the lens. Thus, the tooth is believed to advantageously enhance thestability of the mounting of the closing member. In some arrangements,however, such as those shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, no teeth are providedand the closing member 370, 370′ is provided a generally flushconnection with the periphery of the associated lens 372, 372′. As alsoshown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the periphery of the lenses 372, 372′ can begenerally square or more rounded (compare FIG. 36 to FIG. 37).Preferably, the contour of the abutting surface of the closing member370, 370′ is shaped to complement the peripheral surface of theassociated lens 372, 372′.

With reference now to FIGS. 19-21, a further frame assembly 411 that isarranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of the present invention is illustrated. While the frameassembly 411 can be used as a clip-on style frame, the frame assembly411 preferably comprises a pair of ear pieces or temples (not shown), abridge or nose piece 417, and lens holding members that receive a pairof lenses 421 (one of which is shown). Each lens holding memberpreferably comprises a wire 422. The wire 422 can be configured in anyof the manners and of any of the materials set forth above.

As with the embodiments set forth above, the lens 421 preferably issecured by the wire 422 and the lens 421 preferably has an outer edgeformed with a groove 431 that receives the wire 422. The relationshipbetween the groove 431 and the wire 422 can be as set forth above. Thecooperation of the wire 422 and the groove 431 preferably results in arimless appearance for the eyewear. It also should be noted that thisembodiment can generally be constructed in any manner set forth herein.

With continued reference to FIGS. 19-21, the illustrated bridge 417advantageously includes a flexible projection 419 that extendsdownwardly at each end. A central portion 420 connects the projections419. The central portion 420 preferably has a generally cylindricalcross-section. The cross-section also can be square or any othersuitable shape. A rounded outer contour is preferred for comfort;however, square or other cross-sectional shapes can be used fordiffering fashion looks. In some embodiments, the central portion 420can be tubular; however, the solid construction is advantageously thinand still light weight as compared to a tubular central portion 420 thatwill likely have a larger outer diameter or cross-sectional dimension.

The projection 419 can abut against the outer edge of the correspondinglens 421. Each projection 419 can be formed with a generally verticallyextending guide 427. The guide 427 can be wire-shaped or can be shapedlike the tooth elements 351, 353, which were described above. Thus, atleast a portion of the guide 427 preferably is sized for placementwithin the groove 431 of the lens 421. Advantageously, a pair of holes425 can be located at either end of the guide 427 such that the wire 422can pass through the holes and secure the projection 419 to the side ofthe lens 421.

With reference now to FIGS. 22-24, eyewear can be constructed in anymanner disclosed herein. The wire 422 can be constructed in any mannerand of any material set forth above. In the arrangement illustrated inFIG. 22-24, a nose piece or bridge 447 can be formed with a passage 441through which the wire 422 can extend. In this manner, the bridge 447can be secured to the lens in a manner similar to the projections 419described above.

In another embodiment, such as that shown in FIG. 24, the wire 422 canbe split and secured to the top and the bottom of the bridge 447. In oneembodiment, the wire 422 is soldered, brazed or welded to the bridge447. Other suitable securing techniques, including mechanicalinterlocks, such as the ball and chain type, also can be used. While thebridge is shown attached in the embodiments of FIGS. 22-24, the templescan be attached in similar manners. Thus, the constructions disclosedfor securing bridges can be used for the closing members and theconstructions disclosed for the closing members can be used for thebridges in each of the embodiments disclosed herein.

In addition to the constructions discussed above, any of the eyeweardescribed herein can receive any of a number of other bridgeconstructions, including those shown in FIGS. 25-30. Both the bridgeconstructions discussed above and the bridge constructions shown inFIGS. 25-30 facilitate the joining of both lenses. Other bridge designsalso can be used if desired.

With reference now to FIGS. 25 and 26, a bridge 450 is illustratedtherein. The bridge 450 can comprise a central portion 451 and a pair oflegs 452. The legs 452 extend generally downward from the centralportion 451 and, together with the central portion 451, define agenerally inverted U-shaped bridge 450. While other dimensions can bepracticable, for a robust design, the legs 452 preferably have athickness (see FIG. 25) that is at least one wire diameter while thelegs 452 preferably have a width (see FIG. 26) that is at least two wirediameters. Moreover, the bridge 450 can have any suitablecross-sectional shape, including portions having differingcross-sections. For instance, the central portion 451 can becylindrical, tubular, rectangular, square, oval or the like. Inaddition, the legs 452 can be generally flat but other cross-sectionalshapes also can be used.

At least one hole 453 preferably is formed in each of the pair of legs452. In the illustrated arrangement, two holes 453 are positioned ineach of the legs 452. In some embodiments three or more holes can beused. Having two holes 453 is believed to improve the ability of thebridge to remain in position once the associated eyewear is fullyassembled and in use. Moreover, in frame assembles that featuring fullyadjustable lengths (e.g., lenses of substantially different perimeterdimensions can be accommodated), the position of the bridge 450 alongthe wire can be fully adjusted into a desired position. Similarly, inframe assemblies featuring the ability to accommodate differing shapesbut not necessarily different perimeter dimensions, the bridge 450 canbe repositioned relative to the lens shape until a desired positioningis achieved.

The holes 453 preferably are greater than one diameter of the wire andless than two diameters of the wire. In some constructions, the holes453 can be greater than two diameters of the wire, but such sizing mayresult in an increased width of the legs 452, which may be lessdesirable in some eyewear configurations.

The holes 453 preferably are formed with a recessed or inset region 454of the legs 452 extending between the holes 453. The inset region 454preferably is sized and configured to be accepted within the groove ofthe associated lens. Such a construction allows at least a portion ofthe width legs 452, not necessarily including the inset region 454, toabut a surface of the perimeter of the associated lens. Moreover, in theillustrated arrangement, the wire advantageously does not protrudebeyond the legs 452. Such a construction aids in the appearance of arimless look. In some embodiments, however, the wire can extend slightlybeyond the surface of leg 452 such that the wire slightly protrudes fromthe leg 452. In such constructions, the recess 454 can have a decreaseddimension or the legs 452 can have a smaller overall dimension.

In use, the wire can be threaded through the holes 453 prior to assemblyof the associated wire and lens components. The bridge 450 can bepositioned along the lenses as desired and can be secured in positionwhen the wire is closed in a loop. The wire tension can be adjusted inany manner set forth above and with any suitable construction, includingthose discussed above.

With reference now to FIG. 27, a bridge 460 is illustrated therein. Thebridge 460 comprises a central portion 461 with a short extension 462positioned at each end of the central portion 461. In some arrangements,the extensions 462 can be omitted. Moreover, any suitablecross-sectional shapes can be used for the central portion 461 and theextensions 462. In the illustrated arrangement, a pair of wires (or wireportions) are fixed to the extensions 462. The wires (or wire portions)can be fixed in any suitable manner, including but not limited tosoldering, welding, adhering, or mechanically interlocking structures.Furthermore, the ends of the wires (or wire portions) can be directlyfixed to the central portion 461, if desired. This construction allowsthe placement of the bridge to be securely fixed relative to the lenswhen the eyewear is fully assembled. Moreover, this constructionfacilitates correct alignment of the lens axis because the bridgeposition is not likely to shift along the length of the wire during orafter assembly.

With reference now to FIGS. 28 and 29, a further bridge 470 isillustrated therein. In this arrangement, the bridge 470 generallycomprises a central portion 471 and a short extension 472 positioned ateach end of the central portion 471. In some arrangements, legs similarto those shown in FIGS. 25 and 26 can be used in place of the extensions472. Similar to each of the constructions described above, the bridgeand its component(s) can have any suitable cross-sectionalconfiguration. Moreover, the cross-sectional configuration can be variedalong any portion of the bridge.

A passage 473 preferably extends through at least a portion of eachextension 472. In the illustrated arrangement, the passage 473 extendsthrough the full length of the extension 472 but other constructions canfeature passages that extend through a limited portion of the extension.Moreover, in some variations, the passage 473 can extend through an endof the central portion 471 and the extensions 472 can be omitted. Thepassage 473 can have any suitable cross-sectional configuration. In somearrangements, the passage 473 is cylindrical or has an elliptical oroval cross-section. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifiedor apparent, diameters of any passages, bores, or other channels orformations that accept the wire preferably are sufficiently greater thanthe diameter of the associated wire to facilitate movement of themovement therein. Preferably, at least one lateral dimension of thepassage 473 is greater than one diameter of the associated wire.Similarly, the extension 472 preferably is larger than at least twodiameters of the associated wire such that a robust constructionresults. The dimensions of the components can be varied as desired.

With respect to the arrangement of FIGS. 28 and 29, the bridge 470 canbe used with eyewear having a fixed wire length or a fully adjustablewire length. The bridge 470 can be moved along the length of the wire toachieve a desired bridge placement. Moreover, the bridge can be easilyremoved from the wire and be replaced on a different wire, which allowsthe wire to be replaced as needed or desired. The bridge 470 alsoadvantageously allows the connection to the wire to be substantiallyhidden when the eyewear is fully assembled, which can be desired in someeyewear constructions. The obscured attachment location further enhancesthe rimless appearance of the eyewear with which the bridge 470 is used.

With reference to FIG. 30, a further bridge 480 is illustrated therein.In this arrangement, as with those described above, the bridge 480generally comprises a central portion 481 and a short extension 482positioned at each end of the central portion 481. In some arrangements,legs similar to those shown in FIGS. 25 and 26 can be used in place ofthe extensions 482. Similar to each of the constructions describedabove, the bridge and its component(s) can have any suitablecross-sectional configuration. Moreover, the cross-sectionalconfiguration can be varied along any portion of the bridge.

A passage 483 preferably extends through at least a portion of eachextension 482. In the illustrated arrangement, the passage 483 extendsthrough the full length of the extension 482 but other constructions canfeature passages that extend through a limited portion of the extension482. Moreover, in some variations, the passage 483 can extend through anend of the central portion 481 and the extensions 482 can be omitted.The passage 483 can have any suitable cross-sectional configuration. Insome arrangements, the passage 483 is cylindrical or has an ellipticalor oval cross-section. Preferably, at least one lateral dimension of thepassage 483 is greater than one diameter of the associated wire.Similarly, the extension 482 preferably is larger than at least twodiameters of the associated wire such that a robust constructionresults. The dimensions of the components can be varied as desired.

While the bridge 480 of FIG. 30 is similar to the bridge 470 of FIG. 29,the bridge 480 of FIG. 30 further includes a wire locking mechanism 485.The locking mechanism 485 comprises a projection 486 that extendsthrough an opening 487. The projection 486 has a length sufficient tocontact a portion of the wire that passes through the passage 483. Insome arrangements, the projection is formed on a leaf 488. In furtherarrangements, another projection 489 can be positioned on an oppositeside of the leaf 488. This opposing projection 489 preferably is sizedand configured to fit within the groove formed in the peripheral surfaceof the lens. If the portion of the leaf 488 carrying the projections486, 489 is slightly offset, as in the illustrated arrangement, theopposing projection can be smaller than the diameter of the wire or thedepth of the groove in the lens.

The leaf 488 can be secured to the extension 482 with the projection 486positioned in the opening 487 and the opposing projection 489 extendingtoward the ultimate position of the lens. Thus, as the lens ispositioned and tightened in its location adjacent to the extension 482,the lens contacts the opposing projection 489, which urges theprojection 486 through the opening 487 and into engagement with thewire.

Preferably a recess 490 is formed in the passage 483 to allow the wireto be offset into the recess 490. In some arrangements, the recess 490is formed when the opening 487 is formed through the extension 482. Thewire preferably is sufficiently flexible to allow the wire to be offsetinto the recess when the eyewear is being assembled and the tension isbeing adjusted on the wire.

With reference now to FIGS. 31-51, several additional embodiments ofeyewear assemblies are illustrated therein. The illustrated eyewearassemblies generally relate to primary frame assemblies and auxiliaryframe assemblies that are magnetically securable to the primary frameassemblies. As used herein, a magnetic coupling can comprise a pair ofmagnets or a single magnet and a material that is attracted to themagnet through magnetic forces.

With reference initially to FIG. 31, a primary frame 500 and a secondaryor auxiliary frame 502 as shown. The primary frame 500 and the secondaryframe 502 preferably feature a rimless, flexible wire construction, suchas those discussed above. In other words, the primary frame 500comprises a wire 504 that is disposed within a groove 508 that is formedin an outer periphery of a lens 506. The wire 504 can be constructed inany manner and of any materials set forth above. As illustrated in FIG.32, the wire 504 preferably is sized to be recessed entirely or almostentirely within the groove 508. As such, the wire 504 advantageously issubstantially concealed from view and the lenses are thereby mounted ina rimless manner. The wire 504 can be connected to the balance of theframe components (e.g., temples, bridge, etc.) in any suitable manner,such as those set forth above. The secondary frame can be configured inthe same or similar manners.

With reference now to FIG. 33, a primary frame 600 is illustrated in anexploded manner. A lens 602 can be mounted in a suitable manner with awire 604 that forms a lens supporting structure. In the illustratedarrangement, the lens 602 comprises a groove 606 that extends around aperiphery of the lens 602. As discussed above, the groove preferablyallows the wire 604 to be substantially hidden from view. In someembodiments, the wire 604 may be only partially recessed such that thewire 604 forms a decorative element of the eyewear. Presently, however,the rimless appearance of the eyewear is desired and, thus, the wire 604desirably is substantially recessed from view. Furthermore, the wire 604can be constructed in any manner and of any materials set forth above.

With continued reference to FIG. 33, two portions of the wire 604 thatencircles each lens 602 are connectable using a pair of closing members610, 612. As mentioned above, the upper and lower members 610, 612 canbe inverted, if desired. The upper closing member 610 comprises a pairof holes 614, 616 and the lower closing member also comprises a pair ofholes 618, 620. The hole 614 and the hole 618 preferably are alignedwhile the hole 616 and the hole 620 preferably are aligned. The holes614, 616, 618, 620 accommodate threaded fasteners 622. In theillustrated arrangement, the fasteners (e.g., screws) 622 cooperate withnuts 624 to allow the two members 610, 612 to be tightened together. Insome embodiments, the nuts 624 can be obviated by tapping one of theholes of each respective pair of holes or by provided a threaded sleeve,for instance. It also should be noted that throughout the application,any threaded fastener can be replaced by a suitable fasteningarrangement, including but not limited to, snap-fit assemblies orcomponents or press-fit components.

In the illustrated arrangement, the closing members 610, 612 accommodatea portion of a temple member 626. The temple member can include a hole630 that aligns with one of the pair of holes, such as the holes 616,620. In this manner, the temple can be pivotally attached to the members610, 612. Other suitable manners of connecting the temple 626 to thewire 604 also can be used, including but not limited to those discussedabove.

With continued reference to FIG. 33, a magnetic member 632 is disposedwithin a recessed chamber in the closing members 610, 612. The magneticmembers 632 can have any suitable size or shape. The magnetic member 632can be embedded in at least one of the closing members 610, 612, can besecured by adhesives or the like to at least one of the closing members610, 612 or can be secured in a secondary housing or sleeve that is, inturn, secured to at least one of the closing members 610, 612. Othersuitable manners of connecting the magnetic member to the frame 600 alsocan be used.

The magnetic members 632 can attach to another magnetic member throughdirect contact or via an intervening surface. As such, magneticallyconnected means that the magnetic members allow two components to beconnected by magnetic force regardless of whether the magnetic membersactually make physical contact. In addition, the magnetic members 632can be recessed, mounted flush or protrude from the surface to which orin which they are mounted.

In one embodiment, the closing members 610, 612 can be formed of amagnetizable member (e.g., a ferrous metal such as iron or steel) suchthat the closing members themselves may become magnetized. In such anembodiment, a fully concealed magnet could be used. In the illustratedembodiment, the recess extends through a forward facing surface of atleast one of the closing members 610, 612 thereby forming a window orthe like. The window 634 can be used to allow the magnetic field to beexposed in a desired direction (e.g., forward or rearward in theillustrated arrangement). The use of “window,” however, does notnecessarily mean that the magnet is visually exposed but, rather, meansthat the effects of the magnetic member (e.g., magnetic field) can bedetected at this location. The window can simply be an opening throughwhich the magnetic member is embedded into the closing member or cansimply expose a portion of the magnetic member, which would be insertedfrom a different side of the closing member.

With reference now to FIG. 34, a secondary frame 700 is illustrated. Thesecondary frame 700 can be configured in a similar manner to the primaryframe 600 described above. A lens 702 can be mounted in a suitablemanner with a wire 704 that forms a lens supporting structure. In theillustrated arrangement, the lens 702 comprises a groove 706 thatextends around a periphery of the lens 702. As discussed above, thegroove 706 preferably allows the wire 704 to be substantially hiddenfrom view. In some embodiments, the wire 704 may be only partiallyrecessed such that the wire 704 forms a decorative element of theeyewear. Presently, however, the rimless appearance of the eyewear isdesired and, thus, the wire 704 desirably is recessed from view.Furthermore, the wire 704 can be constructed in any manner and of anymaterials set forth above.

With continued reference to FIG. 34, two portions of the wire 704 thatencircles each lens 702 are connectable together using a pair of closingmembers 710, 712. The upper closing member 710 comprises a pair of holes714, 716 and the lower closing member 712 also comprises a pair of holes718, 720. The hole 714 and the hole 718 preferably are aligned while thehole 716 and the hole 720 preferably are aligned. The holes 714, 716,718, 720 accommodate threaded fasteners 722. In the illustratedarrangement, the fasteners (e.g., screws) 722 cooperate with nuts 724 toallow the two closing members 710, 712 to be tightened together. In someembodiments, tapping one of the holes of each respective pair of holesor providing a threaded sleeve, for instance, can obviate the nuts 724.

With continued reference to FIG. 34, a magnetic member 732 preferably isdisposed within a recessed chamber in the closing members 710, 712. Themagnetic member 732 can be embedded in at least one of the closingmembers 710, 712, can be secured by adhesives or the like to at leastone of the closing members 710, 712 or can be secured in a secondaryhousing or sleeve that is, in turn, secured to at least one of theclosing members 710, 712. Other suitable manners of connecting themagnetic member to the frame 700 also can be used. In one embodiment,the closing members 710, 712 can be formed of a magnetizable member(e.g., a ferrous metal such as iron or steel) such that the closingmembers themselves may become magnetized. In such an embodiment, a fullyconcealed magnet could be used. In the illustrated embodiment, therecess extends through a forward facing surface of the at least one ofthe closing members 710, 712 thereby forming a window or the like. Thewindow 734 can be used to allow the magnetic field to be exposed in adesired direction (e.g., rearward or forward in the illustratedarrangement).

With reference now to FIGS. 35-37, a portion of another embodiment of aneyewear assembly 800 arranged and configured in accordance with certainfeatures, aspects and advantages of the present invention is illustratedtherein. The eyewear 800 features another closing arrangement 802. Theclosing arrangement 802, similar to some of the arrangements set forthabove, allows for the usage of a single stock frame assembly that canaccommodate lenses of various sizes and shapes. The illustrated closingarrangement 802 also provides the added capability of use in amagnetically securable manner. For instance, if the arrangement is usedfor a primary frame, a magnetically securable secondary frame can beused and vice versa.

In the illustrated arrangement, a lens 804 features a peripheral groove806. The groove 806 is sized and shaped to accommodate a wire 808, asdescribed above. The groove 806 and the wire 808 can have any suitableconfiguration, including those set forth above. The wire 808 preferablyhas one end 810 that is secured to one of a pair of closing members 812,814. In the illustrated arrangement, the end 810 of the wire 808 issoldered, welded, mechanically locked, or the like to the lower closingmember 814. The other of the closing members 812, 814, which is theupper closing member 812 in the illustrated arrangement, comprises athrough passage 820.

The illustrated through passage 820 is aligned with a sharply turnedpassage 822 that is formed along an upper surface 824 of the lowerclosing member 814. The upper surface 824 of the illustrated lowerclosing member 814 abuts a lower surface 826 of the upper closing member812 such that the wire 808, when positioned within the passage 822 canbe secured in position by compressive forces that result when the twoclosing members 812, 814 are tightened together. For this reason, thepassage 822 preferably is slightly shallower than the diameter of thewire 808 and the closing members 812, 814 are secured together in amanner that allows them to be drawn together (e.g., with threadedfasteners 830).

As discussed above, at least one of the closing members 812, 814preferably contains or is formed of a magnetic member 832. The magneticmember 832 can be positioned proximate a window 834 or the like.Furthermore, the magnetic member 832 can be mounted in any manner setforth herein. In one embodiment, the magnetic member 832 is disposedwithin a recessed chamber in the closing members 812, 814. The magneticmember 832 can be embedded in at least one of the closing members 812,814, can be secured by adhesives or the like to at least one of theclosing members 812, 814 or can be secured in a secondary housing orsleeve that is, in turn, secured to at least one of the closing members812, 814. Other suitable manners of connecting the magnetic member tothe frame 800 also can be used. In one embodiment, the closing members810, 812 can be formed of a magnetizable member (e.g., a ferrous metalsuch as iron, steel, or the like) such that the closing membersthemselves may become magnetized. In such an embodiment, a fullyconcealed magnet could be used. In the illustrated embodiment, therecess extends through a forward facing surface of at least one of theclosing members 812, 814 thereby forming the window 834 or the like. Thewindow 834 can be used to allow the magnetic field to be exposed in adesired direction (e.g., forward in the illustrated arrangement).

While the illustrated arrangement shows a temple 836 and the associatedrecess within the closing members 812, 814, it is anticipated that theeyewear assembly 800 can be used in configurations not featuringtemples. In addition, the closing members can be used on a bridge or thelike.

With the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 35-37, the upper closing member812 can be easily removed such that the magnetic member 834 can beeasily removed from the frame 800, if desired. Such a constructionenables a consumer to have magnetic eyewear or to not have magneticeyewear while the eyewear manufacturer simply changes one very smallpart. Furthermore, opticians can maintain a stock of both magnetic andnonmagnetic closing members to simply and readily accommodate thedesires of its customers.

With reference now to FIGS. 38-40, a portion of another embodiment of aneyewear assembly 900 arranged and configured in accordance with certainfeatures, aspects and advantages of the present invention is illustratedtherein. The eyewear assembly 900 features another closing arrangement902. The closing arrangement 902 is very similar to the closingarrangement 802 of the eyewear 800 discussed directly above. Rather thanfully describing each component of the eyewear 900, a lower closingblock 914 will be described to illustrate a difference between theclosing member 814 of the eyewear 800 and the closing member 914 of theeyewear 900.

The closing member 914 preferably features a recess 940 that cooperateswith an enlarged end 942 of a wire 908. In the illustrated arrangement,the recess 940 is generally spherical and the enlarged end 942 isgenerally spherical, however, other geometries can be used such as thosedescribed elsewhere herein. The recess 940 also communicates with ashort passage 944 that allows the enlarged end 942 to be slipped intothe recess 940 while the short passage 944 accommodates the end of thewire 908 that extends away from the enlarged end 942. This arrangementallows easy replacement of the wire 908 when a wearer wishes to changelens shape or size or when other circumstances warrant the eyewear 900being disassembled and reassembled.

With reference now to FIG. 41, an embodiment is illustrated in whichmagnetic members 950 are disposed in an orientation for coupling of arimless auxiliary frame 952 to a rimless primary frame 954. In theillustrated arrangement, the magnetic members 950 are shown with anoverlapping configuration such that one is positioned vertically abovethe other. The magnetic members 950 preferably are disposed on or in apair of arms 956, 958 that are secured to the respective lenses 960, 962by a respective wire 964, 966 in any of the manners described above.While both sets of frames features the wire connection, one of theframes could have a more conventional frame not featuring a rimlesslook. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the orientation of the auxiliaryframe 952 relative to the primary frame 954 can be interchanged suchthat the arms of the primary frame 954 extend over the arms of theauxiliary frame 952. Moreover, the connection point between the primaryframe and the auxiliary frame can be varied (e.g., connection betweenthe back of the primary frame and a portion of the auxiliary frame,connection between the top of the primary frame and a portion of theauxiliary frame, connection between the bottom of the primary frame anda portion of the auxiliary frame, connection between an outside surfaceof the primary frame and a portion of the auxiliary frame, connectionbetween an inside surface of the primary frame and a portion of theauxiliary frame, etc.)

With reference now to FIGS. 42-45, a portion of another embodiment of aneyewear assembly arranged and configured in accordance with certainfeatures, aspects and advantages of the present invention is illustratedtherein. The eyewear assembly 1000 features another closing arrangement1002. The closing arrangement 1002 comprises a single block 1004 ratherthan a split closing block formed of two or more components. The singleblock arrangement greatly simplifies assembly and construction.Moreover, manufacturing costs can be decreased using the single blockarrangement of FIGS. 42-45.

The single block 1004 preferably features a recess or socket 1040 thatcooperates with an enlarged end 1042 of a wire 1008. In the illustratedarrangement, the recess 1040 is generally spherical and the enlarged end1042 is generally spherical, however, other geometries can be used suchas those described elsewhere herein. The recess 1040 also communicateswith a short passage 1044 that allows the enlarged end 1042 to beslipped into the recess 1040 while the short passage 1044 accommodatesthe end of the wire 1008 that extends away from the enlarged end 1042.This arrangement allows easy replacement of the wire 1008 when a wearerwishes to change lens shape or size or when other circumstances warrantthe eyewear 1000 being disassembled and reassembled.

A second passage 1020 extends through at least a portion of the block1004. In the illustrated arrangement, the second passage 1020 extendsdownward through the block 1004 at an angle. The angle eases assemblyand allows the end of the wire 1008 to extend through a lower surface ofthe block, which is an area less likely to be visible while the eyewearis worn. Other orientations of the passage also are practicable. Thepassage preferably is slightly oversized relative to the wire diameterbut need not be oversized by any significant amount.

With reference to FIG. 43, a threaded opening 1022 intersects a portionof the second passage 1020. The threaded opening 1022 receives a setscrew 1024 or the like. In some arrangements, the opening 1022 canpenetrate beyond the passage 1020 such that a slight recess is formedopposite the wire 1008 from the set screw 1024. In use, the wire 1008can be tensioned and locked into position with the set screw. If asufficient recess is provided opposite of the set screw, the set screwcan offset a portion of the wire 1008 to allow slight adjustment of thetension or the length of the associated loop.

With reference now to FIGS. 46-50, a portion of a further embodiment ofan eyewear assembly arranged and configured in accordance with certainfeatures, aspects and advantages of the present invention is illustratedtherein. The eyewear assembly 1000′ features another closing arrangement1002′. The closing arrangement 1002′ is similar to the arrangement ofFIGS. 42-45 with the exception that both ends of the wire 1008′ extendthrough passages 1020′ and are secured with set screws 1024′. Furtherdescription is believed unnecessary.

Although the present invention has been disclosed in the context ofcertain preferred embodiments, examples and variations, it will beunderstood by those skilled in the art that the present inventionextends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to otheralternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obviousmodifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while a number ofvariations of the invention have been shown and described in detail,other modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, willbe readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon thisdisclosure. For instance, the exterior shape and dimensions of theclosing members, housings or projections can be any suitable shape orconfiguration, including the use of curved or straight surfaces in theplace of straight or curved surfaces so long as the wire and/or anytensioning components can be properly attached thereto, positioned therewithin or associated therewith. Moreover, any of the closing members,housings or projections described herein can have legs or projectionsthat extend along a portion of the lens surface, for aesthetic reasonsand/or to add additional desired support to the assembly by increasingthe contact area between the component and the respective lens.

It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations ofthe specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made andstill fall within the scope of the invention. It should be understoodthat various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can becombined with or substituted for one another in order to form varyingmodes of the disclosed invention. Moreover, some variations that havebeen described with respect to one embodiment and not another embodimentcan be used with such other embodiments. Many other variations also havebeen described herein and cross-application is intended where physicallypossible. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present inventionherein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosedembodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fairreading of the claims that follow.

1. A method of forming a rimless eyewear system, the method comprising:preparing a lens and forming a lens circumferential channel in aperipheral surface of the lens; opening a flexible wire loop formedsubstantially of a flexible wire; inserting the prepared lens into theflexible wire loop; positioning the flexible wire loop in the lenscircumferential channel formed in the peripheral surface of the lens;and tightening the flexible wire loop around the lens.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein opening the flexible wire loop comprises separating atleast a first end of the flexible wire from a locking unit.
 3. Themethod of claim 1, wherein tightening the flexible wire loop around thelens comprises drawing at least a first end of the flexible wire througha passage in a locking unit.
 4. The method of claim 1 further comprisinglocking the flexible wire in position once the flexible wire loop hasbeen tightened around the lens.
 5. The method of claim 1 furthercomprising securing at least one additional eyewear component to theperipheral surface of the lens with the wire loop.
 6. The method ofclaim 5, wherein the additional eyewear component comprises a bridge. 7.The method of claim 5, wherein the additional eyewear componentcomprises a temple.
 8. A method of forming an eyewear system, the methodcomprising: preparing a pair of lenses and forming a channel in an outerperimeter surface of each of said pair of lenses; wrapping a flexiblewire around each of said pair of lenses and positioning said flexiblewire in at least a portion of said channel; inserting a free end of saidflexible wire into a locking unit; tightening said flexible wire;securing said flexible wire in position relative to said locking unit;and removing any excess from said free end of said flexible wire.
 9. Themethod of claim 8, wherein securing said flexible wire comprises turninga threaded member.
 10. The method of claim 8, wherein tightening saidflexible wire comprises turning a threaded member.
 11. A method offorming an eyewear system, the method comprising: providing a lens, saidlens comprising a front surface, a rear surface spaced from said frontsurface, a thickness defined between said front surface and said rearsurface and a peripheral surface extending from said front surface tosaid rear surface; preparing said lens without forming holes that extendthrough said front surface or said rear surface of said lens; andsecuring a temple and a housing to said peripheral edge of said lenswithout covering at least a portion of said peripheral surface directlyadjacent to said housing both above and below said housing.
 12. Themethod of claim 11, wherein securing said temple comprises tightening alens encircling wire.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein tighteningsaid lens encircling wire comprises turning a threaded member.
 14. Themethod of claim 13 further comprising removing a portion of said lensencircling wire.
 15. An eyewear system comprising: a first eyewear lensand a second eyewear lens, each of said first eyewear lens and saidsecond eyewear lens comprising a front surface, a rear surface spacedfrom said front surface, a thickness defined between said front surfaceand said rear surface and a peripheral surface extending from said frontsurface to said rear surface; said first eyewear lens being connected tosaid second eyewear lens by a bridge, said bridge being joined to saidperipheral surface of said first eyewear lens by a first flexible wireand said bridge being joined to said peripheral surface of said secondeyewear lens by a second flexible wire; and a first temple and a secondtemple, said first temple being connected to said second temple by acombination of said first eyewear lens, said bridge and said secondeyewear lens, said first temple being joined to said first eyewear lensby said first flexible wire, said second temple being joined to saidsecond eyewear lens by said second flexible wire.
 16. The eyewear systemof claim 15 further comprising a groove defined in said peripheralsurface of each of said first eyewear lens and said second eyewear lens,said first flexible wire being at least partially positioned in saidgroove of said first eyewear lens and said second flexible wire being atleast partially positioned in said groove of said second eyewear lens.17. The eyewear system of claim 15, wherein said first flexible wirecomprises a first end and a second end, said first end being connectedto said second end proximate said first temple such that said firstflexible wire generally defines a closed loop.
 18. The eyewear system ofclaim 15, wherein said first and second flexible wires are selectivelyreplaceable without replacing at least one of said first temple, saidsecond temple or said bridge.
 19. A rimless style eyeglass frameassembly comprising at least one lens, said lens comprising a peripheralsurface, a recess extending around at least a portion of said peripheralsurface, said lens being substantially encircled by a flexible wire, atleast a portion of said flexible wire being disposed within said recess,said flexible wire having a first end and a second end, said flexiblewire being connected to a bridge and a connecting member connecting saidfirst end of said flexible wire to said second end of said flexiblewire.
 20. The assembly of claim 19, wherein said flexible wire comprisesa multi-filament wire.